MANSFIELD — The smell of fresh coffee drifted through the morning air as Backroads Brew rolled into its next chapter.
Sunshine lit up the lot at Huntington Bank, 1468 Lexington Ave., where The Deschners celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting Thursday morning.
“It’s beyond exciting,” said Katie Deschner, Backroads Brew owner. “I’m bummed my husband, James, couldn’t be here today, but that is the ultimate goal, to get him out of his job so we can be together doing this all the time.”
Customers can find the truck throughout the week.
They will be at Pinhook Meats in Lucas, 236 W. Main St., Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The truck returns to Huntington Bank on Fridays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Brewing a dream together
The Lucas couple started brewing that dream last fall.
They began the loan process with Huntington in October and signed for their trailer in November, moving quickly from paperwork to opening day.
“My husband and I have been talking about doing something together for a long time,” Deschner said.
They pushed forward, turning an idea into a business.
“We started going down the road and finding a loan,” she added. “Huntington has been fantastic with helping us in the process, where we could move forward with the dream of starting something.”
“It’s been a long road, but it’s been exciting,” she said. “I appreciate everyone coming out.”
Community leaders showed up to support that leap.
Jennifer Wagner, Richland Area Chamber and Economic Development director of member services, praised the effort.
“We are so excited for Katie and what she has to do,” she said. “I know starting a business is a huge leap of faith and we’re just so happy for you and wish you so much success.”
Jessica Gribben, Richland Area Chamber and Economic Development CEO and president, echoed that same message.
“Taking a leap of faith is the perfect wording,” Gribben said. “I’m so excited to be here with Katie and celebrate this day — we know each other from church, so that is exactly the right word to use. I’m so excited for you and to see what you can do.”
A menu designed for everyone
Backroads Brew offers a lineup designed to match its name.
Deschner pointed out the signature menu as a strong starting place for first-time visitors.
Customers can choose from drinks like the Campfire Latte, Maple Trail Latte, Honey Pine Latte and the Dirt Road.
She noted if you like espresso and can handle a strong drink the Midnight Ride is the way to go — which packs three shots of espresso.
Deschner said she can’t pick just one favorite. She leans toward the Campfire Latte, similar to a s’more, and the Maple Trail, which blends maple and cinnamon.
For those who aren’t coffee drinkers she noted they have something for everyone. Frozen chai, dirty sodas, smoothies and more. They also offer trail bites, which include muffins, protein bars and granola bars.
Backroads Brew also sells merchandise, including stickers, hats and shirts.
(Photos from the Backroads Brew ribbon cutting. Credit: Hannah Martin)
